The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys weren’t just encouraging the next generation to strap on the boots in Cairns on Friday.
Over 20 schools in the city were paid a visit by the players as part of the NRL Community Carnival events, ahead of Saturday night's trial against Gold Coast at Barlow Park.
Messages on wellbeing and “Eat Well, Stay Well, Play Well” were taken on board as Cowboys stars passed on their tips of how they keep themselves in shape and the importance of maintaining a good diet and plenty of exercise.
At St Joseph’s Primary School, Lachlan Coote and new recruit Jake Granville were welcomed to a roar of support by the students and a class cow.
Coote, who is looking to cement his spot in the number one jersey for the start of the season when he runs out against the Titans on Saturday night, also touched on bullying.
“I was lucky that I never got bullied when I was at school but I would always help out a mate if I saw it happening. It’s important to stick up for your friends,” he said.
The NRL Community Carnival is now in its 15th year and reaches around 250,000 primary school students across Australia and New Zealand every year.